Comments on: I CHEATED DEATH!

By: HAPPY ANNIVERSARY AND GOODBYE « THE BROOKS FILE

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY AND GOODBYE « THE BROOKS FILE — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:32:24 +0000

[...] I digress. As I posted previously, you would think I cheated death taking Chantix, but the bottom line is that I quit. And this time, I’m saying “I [...]

By: Jill Solomito

Jill Solomito — Mon, 26 May 2008 23:23:09 +0000

Gerry – Congrats on quitting. I smoked my last cigarette on 8/18/07 and also with the help of Chantix, have quit. I also was surprised how relatively easy it was while on the drug but as you say the dreams were something else. As I tell everyone it is a decision I make everyday not to smoke after doing it for 35 years and I also have been in situations that I could easily start again. Gum and M&M’s have helped get over the rough spots.
Continued sucess, Jill

By: Peter N

Peter N — Sun, 25 May 2008 15:23:10 +0000

Gerry, no congrats here from me, then. But I will say this. We need you in our lives every week, every day, for a very, very long time. And I’m happy for you. And for us!! Peter

By: Wendy

Wendy — Sat, 24 May 2008 15:34:43 +0000

Hooray for you! I quit quite by accident; long story and not worth taking up the space here to relate. It’s got to be about 10+ years ago, and I still, for no apparent reason, will suddenly want a cig! Very odd. It passes in a flash, so don’t worry; I know you’ll make it!

Have a great weekend!

By: Gerry

Gerry — Fri, 23 May 2008 18:50:58 +0000

Thanks. Having failed before, I’m not looking for congrats, but they are encouraging. As for actually quitting, it all comes down to “Ya gotta wanna.”

By: LadyPatsFan

LadyPatsFan — Fri, 23 May 2008 18:16:02 +0000

So glad to read that you have had success in quitting that horrid, health-stealing habit, Gerry. My dad did it the hard way – on his own with no med help – about 20 years ago, but sadly, not before the damage was done. It took him 6 attempts over the course of about 5 years before he was successful in beating the habit, the long term effect being advanced COPD (chronic bronchitis and emphysema). I pray that you’ve quit soon enough to avoid residual effects, my friend!

Congratulations and continued strength to you – and anyone else trying to quit – regardless of the method you choose.

By: Gerry

Gerry — Fri, 23 May 2008 13:27:10 +0000

I’ve learned the hard way that I can’t have “just one.” I’ll be day-to-day forever, I suppose.

People need to read and watch health stories very carefully. Take nothing as gospel until you talk to your doctor.

And beware of any story (as so many do) that end with “more study is needed.”

By: Linda

Linda — Fri, 23 May 2008 12:49:10 +0000

Congratulations, Gerry, on quitting smoking and surviving Chantix. Everyday, there is something new to be “afraid” of. Pretty soon, we won’t be able to eat, drink or take any medications for fear of the side affects or dying from it. People need to sort through all the “stuff” being reported out there and do what is best for them. Thanks for sharing your experience with Chantix – it might save someone’s life. You will still need to stay strong to resist the temptation of just one last cigarette. I quit 30 years ago and every once in a while (usually during a stressful time) I get a little tingling in the back of my brain saying “I could sure use a cigarette right now!” But, I haven’t. Good luck!